Tripura's Chief Minister Highlights Shift from Infiltration to Exfiltration
Tripura's Border Security Update
Agartala, Dec 2: Manik Saha, the Chief Minister of Tripura, has announced that the northeastern state, bordered by Bangladesh on three sides, is currently experiencing a trend of exfiltration rather than infiltration across its international boundary.
According to an official report, the Border Security Force (BSF) has detained 57 illegal Rohingya immigrants, 628 Bangladeshi nationals, and 280 Indian citizens during various operations throughout 2024.
"There is no infiltration occurring from the border. Instead, we are observing exfiltration... The BSF has been instructed to return infiltrators after discussions with the Border Guards of Bangladesh and following legal protocols," he stated during a press conference on Monday evening.
Emphasizing the government's strong stance against infiltration, Saha noted that securing the international border in Tripura is particularly challenging due to its geographical features.
With an 856-km international border, Tripura is encircled by Bangladesh on three sides.
"The difficult terrain and riverine landscape have made it impossible to install barbed wire fences in certain areas. Nevertheless, the BSF is performing admirably in safeguarding the international border," he added.
Regarding the exfiltration linked to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in several states, Saha mentioned that many individuals who previously resided in the country with fraudulent documents are now departing.
"Those who have been living here with fake documents will need to leave. The SIR will significantly impact West Bengal following Bihar," he remarked.
When questioned about the timeline for SIR in Tripura, Saha responded, "The Centre has made it clear that illegal foreigners will not be permitted to remain and participate in elections here. If New Delhi decides, SIR will be implemented in our state. The presence of illegal foreigners is a threat to national security."
In response to the Opposition's criticism of SIR, Saha stated, "Infiltration was a political tool for them, but this initiative is aimed at ensuring that only legitimate Indians take part in elections."